Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.4.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# City Startup Labs

Creating a new class of entrepreneurs and innovators.

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://citystartuplabs.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Henry Rock of City Startup Labs On Leading An Audacious, Visionary, Impact-Focused Program](https://citystartuplabs.com/audacious-impact-henry-rock-of-city-startup-labs-on-leading-an-audacious-visionary-impact-focused-program/) - An Interview With Rachel KlineAuthority Magazine Editorial Staff Find a work/life balance. Anything audacious requires enormous energy, often tapping your reserves and stressing your personal relationships along the way. So, make regular time for self. Honor those who often endure the sacrifice of your absence. And, tune out, loosen the grip and be kind to
- [Connecting more than just your cell phone after repairs](https://citystartuplabs.com/connecting-more-than-just-your-cell-phone-after-repairs/) - by Cameron WilliamsPublished Tuesday, August 26, 2025 9:00 pmThe Charlotte Post ReConnex is more than a tech repair company. The business, which opened in June, is powered by a Digital Champions Grant from the North Carolina Department of Information Technology with a goal of providing hyper-local, affordable tech repair services to underserved communities. ReConnex, located
- [A new era for tech repair in Charlotte](https://citystartuplabs.com/a-new-era-for-a-new-era-for-tech-repair-in-charlotte/) - Author: wcnc.comPublished: 2:13 PM EDT July 22, 2025
- [A New Era of Tech Repair in Charlotte | ReConnex Grand Opening](https://citystartuplabs.com/a-new-era-of-tech-repair-in-charlotte-reconnex-grand-opening/) - On June 19, 2025, City Startup Labs proudly celebrated the grand opening of ReConnex, our newest venture focused on bridging the digital divide through community-powered tech repair. Located in North Pointe Plaza (5430 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28213)—left of Family Dollar—ReConnex is a worker-owned cooperative offering affordable, high-quality phone, tablet, and laptop repair services,
- [Mischelle Massey](https://citystartuplabs.com/mischelle-massey/) - Mischelle Massey is a resilient and driven woman who, after exercising confinement, transformed her life through education and determination. During her time in detainment, she discovered a passion for technology and pursued a path that led her to earn a degree in Computer Science. Today, she is a skilled professional in the tech industry, specializing
- [Tamika Stafford](https://citystartuplabs.com/tamika-stafford/) - I’m a performance accelerator and strategic sales leader with a track record of driving growth, building high-performing teams, and leading regional transformation. I bring over a decade of experience leading multi-market teams, delivering revenue results, and aligning strategy with execution—particularly in complex, fast-evolving environments. In my most recent role, I led a team spanning multiple
- [Samuel Collins](https://citystartuplabs.com/samuel-collins/) - Dynamic CEO with 15+ years of experience directing the daily operations, long-term strategic growth, and resource development initiatives of service organizations.Highly effective at accomplishing social impact goals that benefit the community by developing productive relationships; well-respected amongst stakeholders including donors, community leaders, organizational staff, and beneficiaries.History of securing competitive grants, 5- and 6-figure individual donations,
- [Adrian T. Marable](https://citystartuplabs.com/adrian-t-marable/) - For over 15 years, I’ve helped companies like Ingersoll-Rand and others with mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures to look under the hood pre-acquisition and improve operations by up to 67% per year post-acquisition using our DCI Method. I’ve helped companies with:Inefficient and disorganized processes: Redesigning over 3,000 processes and implementing clear systems for process management addresses
- [City Startup Labs to Open New Social Enterprise: ReConnex](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-to-open-new-social-enterprise-reconnex/) - PRESS RELEASEMedia contact:Azania Herronaherron@zajapr.com980-272-1804 The Digital Service Repair Business Managed and Co-owned by Justice-Impacted Individuals is Offering Free Memberships During Grand Opening Celebration CHARLOTTE, N.C., June 16, 2025—ReConnex, a digital device repair business launched by City Startup Labs (CSL) and former participants of its ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program, is holding a grand opening celebration on June
- [North Charlotte tech repair store that offers workers a second chance will open soon](https://citystartuplabs.com/north-charlotte-tech-repair-store-that-offers-workers-a-second-chance-will-open-soon/) - By Catherine Muccigrosso The Charlotte Observer Updated April 22, 2025 11:49 AM City Startup Labs, a workforce training and mentorship organization, is expanding its pilot re-entry program for formerly incarcerated entrepreneurs with the debut of its first-of-its-kind retail business. ReConnex, or Reentry Connections, will open a digital device repair shop at 5430 N. Tryon St. Suite
- [City Startup Labs Signs Lease for its Exciting New Venture ReConnex](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-signs-lease-for-its-exciting-new-venture-reconnex/) - Elsworth Usher and Mustaffa Jenkins – Co-owners The Digital Service Repair is a Social Enterprise Owned and Managed by its Employees, Bridging the Gap in Digital Tech Services in North Charlotte CHARLOTTE, N.C., April 17, 2025—City Startup Labs, an organization providing leading-edge skills training, mentorship, career building and community to a new class of justice-impacted
- [City Startup Labs signs lease for new Charlotte venture](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-signs-lease-for-new-charlotte-venture/) - By Symone GrahamStaff Writer, Charlotte Business JournalApr 21, 2025Updated Apr 22, 2025 7:51am EDT City Startup Labs, a Charlotte business accelerator and incubator for primarily justice-impacted individuals, has signed a lease for its newest venture. Dubbed ReConnex, the venture will operate as a retail digital device repair business that CSL will run at 5430 N. Tryon St, Charlotte,
- [Black History Profile - Lewis Latimer](https://citystartuplabs.com/black-history-profile-lewis-latimer/) - As City Startup Labs comes to the end of Black History Month 2025, we want to acknowledge an amazing scientist, inventor and key figure behind the more well known labs of the late 1800’s — Lewis Latimer. His words seem appropriate for these times. Before you read about Latimer, I’d first like you to know
- [City Startup Labs Announces Key Staff Promotions and Organizational Changes](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-announces-key-staff-promotions-and-organizational-changes/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMedia contact: Azania Herronaherron@zajapr.com 980-272-1804 CHARLOTTE, N.C., February 25, 2025 – City Startup Labs (CSL), an organization that offers entrepreneurship and workforce development training to justice-impacted individuals, is pleased to announce several key staff promotions and organizational changes. The new roles and responsibilities aim to strengthen CSL’s leadership in reimagining workforce development for formerly
- [Prison to prosperity: How a non-profit is creating opportunities for people re-entering society](https://citystartuplabs.com/prison-to-prosperity/) - By Erica Bryant, wsoctv.comFebruary 11, 2025 at 6:10 pm EST Watch Video CHARLOTTE — Around 48,000 people are in prison in the Carolinas, and most of them will be released eventually. But if they can’t find employment, they’re more likely to re-offend or end up back behind bars. Channel 9′s Erica Bryant found a local non-profit
- [Henry Rock on City Startup Labs](https://citystartuplabs.com/henry-rock-on-city-startup-labs/) - By Scott Douglas Jacobsen Henry Rock founded City Startup Labs (CSL) to empower young Black men through entrepreneurship, inspired by his experiences in Black-owned media. Henry Rock founded City Startup Labs (CSL) to empower young Black men through entrepreneurship, inspired by his experiences in Black-owned media. Over time, CSL expanded to include women and introduced the
- [Charlotte's City Startup Labs champions second chances for young Black entrepreneurs](https://citystartuplabs.com/charlottes-city-startup-labs-champions-second-chances-for-young-black-entrepreneurs/) - Author: Nick SturdivantPublished: 4:04 PM EST January 14, 2025Updated: 5:55 PM EST January 14, 2025 “There are extraordinarily talented folks that we are overlooking in estimation,” Henry Rock, executive director and founder of City Startup Labs said CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Henry Rock became accustomed to hearing “yes” throughout his career in advertising sales. This trend continued as he
- [CSL Launches Toastmasters Club](https://citystartuplabs.com/csl-launches-toastmasters-club/) - Discover Your Voice with the New CSL Toastmasters Club! City Startup Labs is thrilled to launch our new Toastmasters Club, a transformative opportunity for REEP and Restorative Pathways (RP) participants, as well as the broader justice-impacted community. This club offers a supportive space to enhance public speaking, communication, and leadership skills, helping you build confidence
- [City Startup Labs ~ Year in Review](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-year-in-review/) - 2024 in Review Organization Milestones and AchievementsMoved from UNCC to CPCC in FebruaryHired Margaret Velez as Program ManagerHired Shaheedah Ross as Program AdministratorHeld Inaugural Staff Retreat2nd Annual Board RetreatImplemented robust data collection and tracking efforts with Queens UniversityCompleted data security project and implementation10 Years of Impact ReportStaff realignment for 2025Strategic Plan update Community Engagement &
- [City Startup Labs Receives $10,000 Grant from U.S. Bank Foundation](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-receives-10000-grant-from-u-s-bank-foundation/) - The Financial Award Will Support Reentry Entrepreneurship and Economic Mobility CHARLOTTE, N.C., Dec. 16, 2024 – City Startup Labs (CSL) has received a $10,000 grant from the U.S. Bank Foundation to support its ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP). REEP is a career development program that addresses challenges presented for justice-impacted individuals. The grant will be used
- [Ten Years of Impact](https://citystartuplabs.com/ten-years-of-impact/)
- [Expressions of Thanks - Annual Gratitude Newsletter](https://citystartuplabs.com/expressions-of-thanks-annual-gratitude-newsletter/) - Gratitude is the attitude that changes everything. To be grateful for something is to see it and acknowledge it as a gift, even when the gift is not immediately apparent. City Startup Labs was launched ten years ago, this past January, with the idea of developing entrepreneurial talent and capacity within young Black men in Charlotte.
- [It's Our Anniversary!](https://citystartuplabs.com/its-our-anniversary/) - In January 2014, I set out to chart a course to reimagine young Black men as a new class of entrepreneurs. Starting with 17 hand-picked and eager founders, the support of the Urban League and the backing of the Rockefeller Foundation, the City Startup Labs (CSL) experiment was launched. From those very humble beginnings with
- [New NC reentry project will train tech entrepreneurs in Charlotte](https://citystartuplabs.com/new-nc-reentry-project-will-train-tech-entrepreneurs-in-charlotte/)
- [City Startup Labs’ new initiative combines entrepreneurship and tech skills to target Charlotte’s digital divide](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-new-initiative-combines-entrepreneurship-and-tech-skills-to-target-charlottes-digital-divide-2/) - by Madeline Holly-Carothers City Startup Labs is set to launch a new tech-focused initiative that will bring device repair to communities in need, the organization announced on July 3. The new initiative is part of its ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program. With a $400,000 grant from the North Carolina Department of Information Technology, the Charlotte organization will partner with
- [Charlotte group to launch a tech repair program for low-income households](https://citystartuplabs.com/charlotte-group-to-launch-a-tech-repair-program-for-low-income-households/) - WFAE | By Elvis MenayesePublished July 3, 2024 at 5:46 PM EDT Listen 1:22 A Charlotte workforce development group was awarded today a $400,000 dollar grant to launch a digital tech repair program. It will help provide career opportunities to those who are formerly incarcerated, while also providing tech services for low-income households. City Startup Labs received the
- [TEDx to Triumph: Henry Rock Inspires A New Class of Entrepreneurs](https://citystartuplabs.com/tedx-to-triumph-henry-rock-inspires-a-new-class-of-entrepreneurs/) - Are you ready to hear from a visionary leader transforming the entrepreneurial landscape? In From TEDx to Triumph: Henry Rock Inspires A New Class of Entrepreneurs, Henry Rock, founder of City Startup Labs, takes listeners on a journey of innovation and empowerment for underserved communities. Through this talk, Henry shares how he’s equipping young Black
- [City Startup Labs Celebrates Ten Years of Entrepreneurship and Workforce Readiness Development to Spur Social and Economic Mobility](https://citystartuplabs.com/ten-years-of-entrepreneurship-and-workforce-readiness/) - Media Contact: Azania Herronaherron@zajapr.com980-272-1804 CHARLOTTE, N.C., October 11, 2024 – City Startup Labs (CSL), a nonprofit committed to developing entrepreneurial talent and workplace readiness among justice-impacted individuals, celebrated ten years of impact and plans for growth over a breakfast celebration at the Beau Monde Collector’s Room on Freedom Drive on October 10. The event marked one decade in
- [Innovating the future Meet this year's Power 100](https://citystartuplabs.com/innovating-the-future-meet-this-years-power-100/) - leaders with big ideas that are driving Charlotte forward This year’s Power 100 is a little different. That’s not actually news, since every year CBJ changes the focus of our selection of 100 key local leaders. In 2022, we identified 100 job creators driving the region’s growth beyond the pandemic. Last year, Power 100 focused
- [in support of those we are honored to serve](https://citystartuplabs.com/in-support-of-those-we-are-honored-to-serve/) - Another Class of New Healthcare Employees Our Workplace Readiness Program, Restorative Pathways, in partnership with Advocate/Atrium Health, kicks off a new cohort of nearly 20 participants on October 7th, 2024. This 5-week/100-hour training, is our 7th in Charlotte and is slated to graduate on November 8th, 2024. City Startup Labs selects justice-impacted individuals due to
- [Celebrating Black Philanthropy Month: A Living History of Mutual Aid and Triumph](https://citystartuplabs.com/celebrating-black-philanthropy-month-a-living-history-of-mutual-aid-and-triumph/) - The Birth of Mutual Aid Societies: Communities Taking Care of Their Own In the late 18th century, free and enslaved Black people in America faced a harsh reality: that formal societal structures excluded them. But out of this exclusion, the first Black Mutual Aid Societies were born. These societies were lifelines, channels of hope, and
- [CSL is Launching a New Venture and Why this Matters](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-is-moving-forward-with-new-ideas-launching-new-ventures/) - City Startup Labs is the recent recipient of a Digital Champions Grant from the North Carolina’s Department of Information Technology’s (NCDIT) Division of Broadband and Digital Equity. As one of 63 community service, nonprofit, higher education and regional organizations across the state, CSL was awarded $400,000 to launch a social enterprise to address a specific
- [Shaheedah Jackson](https://citystartuplabs.com/shaheedah-jackson/) - Program Administrator, Restorative Pathways Shaheedah Jackson is an entrepreneur and owner of Good Portions Italian Ices, exemplifying resilience and adaptability. Despite facing significant early life challenges, including time in foster and kinship placements across North Carolina and Florida, she has persevered. Becoming a mother at a young age and experiencing justice system involvement at 15,
- [MEGAN VAN FLEET](https://citystartuplabs.com/megan-van-fleet/) - Director of Operations Megan Van Fleet has served as the Director of Operations for CSL since 2023. Prior to that, she served as the Executive Assistant since 2015. A native of Virginia, Megan graduated from the University of Virginia with a Bachelor of Arts in French and a Master’s in Teaching. She has previously worked
- [City Startup Labs Awarded $400,000 Digital Champions Grant to Pilot a Digital Tech Services Social Venture](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-awarded-400000-digital-champions-grant-to-pilot-a-digital-tech-services-social-venture/) - Media Contact: Azania Herronaherron@zajapr.com980-272-1804 CHARLOTTE, N.C., July 3, 2024– City Startup Labs (CSL), a nonprofit focused on developing entrepreneurial talent and workplace for justice-impacted individuals, has received a North Carolina Department of Information Technology (NCDIT) Office of Digital Equity and Literacy Digital Champions grant award to pilot ReConnex (ReentryConnections), a retail digital device repair business
- [City Startup Labs’ new initiative combines entrepreneurship and tech skills to target Charlotte’s digital divide](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-new-initiative-combines-entrepreneurship-and-tech-skills-to-target-charlottes-digital-divide/) - City Startup Labs is set to launch a new tech-focused initiative that will bring device repair to communities in need, the organization announced on July 3. The new initiative is part of its ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program. With a $400,000 grant from the North Carolina Department of Information Technology, the Charlotte organization will partner with Omaha-based organization
- [The Power of Redemption and the Restoration of Harrison Ervin](https://citystartuplabs.com/the-power-of-redemption-and-the-restoration-of-harrison-ervin/) - REFLECTIONS: MY JOURNEY OF RESTORATION FROM SUBSTANCE USE My story is one of gratitude and hope! It is a story filled with struggle, humiliation, redemption and the mastery of second chances. The Atrium Health Collaboration with the City Start Up Labs and the Restorative Pathways Program continues to play a vital role in my recovery and
- [INNOVATE & ELEVATE: JUNE 2024](https://citystartuplabs.com/innovate-elevate-june-2024/) - City Startup Labs Hosts Successful ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program Pitch Event City Startup Labs (CSL) recently showcased the entrepreneurial talents of justice-impacted individuals at their ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) Pitch Event. The event featured innovative business ideas developed by participants who have undergone extensive training in CSL’s comprehensive career development program. With support from Mecklenburg County,
- [City Startup Labs Hosted a ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program Pitch Event as Part of its Restorative Justice and Career Development Efforts](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-hosted-a-reentry-entrepreneurship-program-pitch-event-as-part-of-its-restorative-justice-and-career-development-efforts/) - Media Contact: Azania Herronaherron@zajapr.com980-272-1804 Newly Minted Entrepreneurs Are Moving from Training to Launching Their New Business Ideas CHARLOTTE, N.C., June 12, 2024–Yesterday, City Startup Labs (CSL) hosted a 5.0 Pitch Event for its ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP), a career development program that addresses challenges presented for justice-impacted individuals. Participants of the Pitch Event were a
- [CSL Secures Key Funding from $3.6 Million Workforce Development Grant Approved by City Council](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-secures-key-funding-from-3-6-million-workforce-development-grant-approved-by-city-council/) - We are thrilled to announce that City Startup Labs has been selected as one of the recipients of a substantial workforce development grant, part of the $3.6 million in funds unanimously approved by the city council. This decision represents a significant investment in Charlotte’s future, reinforcing a commitment to empowering local residents and businesses. Mayor
- [An Entrepreneurial Flashback – Black Media’s Golden Age](https://citystartuplabs.com/an-entrepreneurial-flashback-black-medias-golden-age/) - As we wind down Small Business Month and acknowledge the accomplishments of the 21st Century’s entrepreneurial class, I’m reminded of era that has gone under-reported, but was likely one of the richest periods of Black business success that we ought to chronicle — one that I witnessed firsthand. From the early 1970’s through the late
- [Beyond Second Chances](https://citystartuplabs.com/beyond-second-chances/) - Part I – The Prisoner Reentry Industry As we come to the end of Second Chance Month – initiated in 2017 by the Prison Fellowship, it should be noted that the United States has the highest rate of incarceration in the world. China – a “non-democratic” country with a population of 1.4 billion is often
- [A Decade of Transformation and the Visionary Path Ahead](https://citystartuplabs.com/a-decade-of-transformation-and-the-visionary-path-ahead/) - by H.E. Thompson Jr. | Apr 5, 2024 | CLT Blog In the vibrant tapestry of entrepreneurship and social impact, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of City Startup Labs (CSL) and its ten-year journey of fostering a new class of entrepreneurs and value-added employees. At the heart of this remarkable narrative is Henry Rock, a visionary whose foresight
- [NIA ROCK](https://citystartuplabs.com/nia-rock/) - Senior Community Banking Executive Vice President, Community Development Officer BankUnited Nia Rock is a Community Reinvestment Banking professional and founder of BlueSuite Solutions, Inc., a business consultancy promoting sustainable Community and Economic Development strategies for triple bottom-line results. With a BA in Economics and an MBA in Impact Finance from Bard College, Ms. Rock has led
- [Beyond the Escape Room: Discovering True Impact](https://citystartuplabs.com/beyond-the-escape-room-discovering-true-impact/) - Join us in commemorating a decade of transformative impact as City Startup Labs embarks on its REEP cohort journey at Central Piedmont Community College. From innovative problem-solving in escape rooms to honoring the indelible legacy of Women’s History Month, we pay homage to our roots, celebrate our achievements, and shine a spotlight on the inspiring
- [Reaching Beyond the Ordinary to the Extraordinary](https://citystartuplabs.com/reaching-beyond-the-ordinary-to-the-extraordinary/) - As Black History Month winds down, City Startup Labs is spotlighting a set of achievers, who in spite of the odds, realized extraordinary success as entrepreneurs. NEW REEP COHORT Last week we started another ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) cohort at Central Piedmont Community College’s central campus in Charlotte (you’ll recall in our last newsletter that
- [Dr. King Wasn't Just Dreaming & We're On the Move](https://citystartuplabs.com/dr-king-wasnt-just-dreaming-were-on-the-move/) - In 1964, when Dr. King gave his Nobel Peace prize speech, poverty in the US stood at 17%. He spoke before a massive audience and called out the economic inequality that existed not only in the gap between developed and developing countries, but also between the rich and the poor in America. While the poverty
- [REEP NEWS – SPRING](https://citystartuplabs.com/reep-news-spring/) - City Startup Labs’ ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP), with the support of an NC Idea BEC Ecosystem grant, has been able to move ahead with the planned launch of the training of a new cohort of returning citizens and justice-impacted individuals. The training, slated to begin May 17th, will be based on a new model informed
- [RESTORATIVE PATHWAYS AT ATRIUM HEALTH – CAREER LADDERS](https://citystartuplabs.com/restorative-pathways-at-atrium-health-career-ladders/) - This week in Atrium Health Proud, Kaleiba Bouler describes her experience and success in the Restorative Pathways program at Atrium Health. The following is an excerpt from the Monday, August 29, 2022, Atrium Proud Newsletter, showcasing two Restorative Pathways participants, now AH teammates, Kabeila Bouler and George White. Why I am Proud… I honestly
- [LEEROY JORDAN](https://citystartuplabs.com/leeroy-jordan/) - DIRECTOR OF RESTORATIVE PATHWAYS Author, Advocate, Activist, Leader, Trainer, Speaker Over the span of a 30-year career LeeRoy Jordan has served marginalized populations in a variety of roles. He has worked extensively with criminal and juvenile justice populations, from pre-trial services to post-incarceration support. He has advocated for alternatives to incarceration and diversions to
- [Discover What's New: Checkout our NEW website](https://citystartuplabs.com/discover-whats-new-checkout-our-new-website/) - Here’s What’s New…Take a look — we have finally refreshed our website! While the look and feel haven’t changed much, learning about what we’ve been up to and why has gotten a lot easier. Spend some time touring around the site. Check out City Startup Labs’ new Theory of Change, our history, and timeline. Reflect on
- [On Starting Anew…](https://citystartuplabs.com/on-starting-anew/) - In President Biden’s proclamation marking April as Second Chance Month, it was mentioned that every year, over 640,000 people are released from State and Federal prisons. More than 70 million Americans have a criminal record that creates significant barriers to employment, economic stability, and successful reentry into society. Thousands of legal and regulatory restrictions prevent
- [REEP 2022/23](https://citystartuplabs.com/reep-2022-23/) - The latest cohort of City Startup Labs’ ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) just recently completed two legs of their entrepreneurial journey, which started back in late August 2022. REEP implemented the post-pilot model of LEARN/EARN/BUILD in 2021 and the final leg (BUILD) is where they begin to apply what they learned over the past nine months.
- [Profiles of ReEntry Entrepreneurship](https://citystartuplabs.com/profiles-of-reentry-entrepreneurship/) - Back in 2018, when we piloted the ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP), there were any number of assumptions that we wanted to test — like, could the work that we had previously done with millennials be applied, whole cloth, to what was a new population for CSL? Could we foster business-building through a team of co-founders
- [What is the reward for giving?](https://citystartuplabs.com/what-is-the-reward-for-giving/) - Throughout the year, you have likely been keeping up with us at City Startup Labs and following our venture into the realm of reentry entrepreneurship and workplace readiness. All year we have been busy at work developing the entrepreneurial talent and capacity of justice-impacted persons who have a desire to put their new ideas to
- [City Startup Labs is Moving Offices for Extended Reach and New Workforce Readiness Opportunities](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-is-moving-offices-for-extended-reach-and-new-workforce-readiness-opportunities/) - The Organization Aims to Drive More Socio-economic Mobility Among Justice-Impacted Individuals and Black Tech Founders Media contact: AzaniaHerronaherron@zajapr.com980-272-1804 CHARLOTTE, N.C., January 31, 2024–Today, City Startup Labs, a nonprofit organization that addresses social economic mobility through leading-edge skills training, hands-on instruction, support and mentorship, career building and community engagement, announces the move of its offices to
- [BRIAN S. LYGHT](https://citystartuplabs.com/brian-s-lyght/) - COO, The Center for Urban Families Brian Lyght is a business development and strategy professional with over 30 years of combined public, private and nonprofit sector experience helping organizations improve their operational performance and achieve their mission. Since 2017, Brian has served as Chief Operating Officer of the Center for Urban Families, a Baltimore,
- [Issa Hall](https://citystartuplabs.com/issa-hall/) - Issa Hall is a lawyer and founding partner of Hall & Dixon, PLLC, a law firm based in Charlotte, NC. With over a decade of experience, Issa has established himself as a litigator specializing in criminal defense and personal injury cases. In addition to his legal expertise, Issa is also the founder of JRZY, a
- [Craig Selimotic Danforth](https://citystartuplabs.com/craig-selimotic-danforth/) - Craig Selimotic Danforth is a seasoned Vice President and Wealth Advisor at Bernstein Private Wealth Management, bringing over two decades of comprehensive experience and unwavering dedication to guiding clients through the complexities that accompany prosperity. Grounded in a genuine curiosity that fuels his daily journey, Craig is committed to providing a holistic view and an
- [E. Alan Crawford II](https://citystartuplabs.com/e-alan-crawford-ii/) - E. Alan Crawford, a native of High Point, North Carolina now residing in the Greater Charlotte area, spent 6 years serving his country in the Unites States Navy. Earning his Bachelor’s in Business from the University of California at San Diego. Shortly after separating from the military, Alan found himself tempted by the lure of
- [A Global Spotlight on Entrepreneurship + Do Good CLT](https://citystartuplabs.com/a-global-spotlight-on-entrepreneurship-do-good-clt/) - This year, November was proclaimed, National Entrepreneurship Month by President Biden. And this week is Global Entrepreneurship Week. During GEW, Innovate Charlotte and the city of Charlotte are hosting the Queen City’s GEW this year, with the theme of “Entrepreneurs Thrive Here.” Back in 2015, I went to Curacao and spoke and conducted a workshop
- [Reflections: I encourage you to read this in full…](https://citystartuplabs.com/reflections/) - Melanie Ruona is a graduate of the Restorative Pathways project. She wrote and delivered this speech at the graduation ceremony on Friday, August 11, 2023. Her words are a testament to the impact of the work that we do. We encourage you to read it in its entirety. Today, I stand before you as a
- [The Future is NOW](https://citystartuplabs.com/the-future-is-now/) - Back in the day, before automated vehicles and streaming services, we knew we would live in a world where Artificial Intelligence (AI) would help us make important decisions. We always envisioned a time where robots would lighten our work loads and our energy could be used to develop new ideas. That time is here. While
- [AFF23: Ancient to The Future](https://citystartuplabs.com/aff23-ancient-to-the-future/) - We invite you to join us this Labor Day weekend 8/31-9/2 for fun, fantasy food and phenomena at the Afrofuturism Fest ’23: Ancient to the Future. #AFF23: Ancient to the Future will be a celebration of Black creativity and tech innovation through the ages. We’ve curated a lineup to intrigue the techie, the designer, the
- [Reflecting on Black Business Month](https://citystartuplabs.com/reflecting-on-black-business-month/) - Yesterday was the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington, and during Dr. King’s breathtaking speech, there was far more than dreaming on his mind. So, let’s consider the intersection of that historic moment with this year’s Black Business Month (August 2023) and why there’s still a need to cash that check. In 2004, John William
- [Pushing Through Loss: Tiffany White shares her story | REEP](https://citystartuplabs.com/pushing-through-loss-tiffany-white-shares-her-story-reep/) - REEP participant Tiffany White speaks about her experience of losing her son to gun violence and the impact it had on her life, including a run-in with the law. She shares how she found redemption through the program, which helped her develop emotional intelligence and start a job as a digital navigator. Thanks to the
- [HENRY ROCK](https://citystartuplabs.com/henry-rock/) - FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Henry Rock has well over two decades of experience in media sales, advertising and marketing, working on national brands in Chicago, New York and Philadelphia for Johnson Publishing, the National Black Network, Black Media Inc. and other Black Media companies. He has worked in business development and strategic planning for small
- [CITY STARTUP LABS IS WORKING TO ADDRESS THE DIGITAL DIVIDE – AN UPDATE…](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-is-working-to-address-the-digital-divide-an-update/) - With the help of 2020 CARES ACT funding through the United Way of the Central Carolinas and the City of Charlotte, CSL was able to segue into a role of designing and delivering training for and deploying a team of digital navigators. This team has been working in a customer service/help-desk role in support of five
- [Robyn Massey](https://citystartuplabs.com/robyn-massey/) - Retired from IBM For over 30 years, Robyn was a respected leader and innovator in Information Technology. Working for IBM and Microsoft, Robyn has led numerous multi-million-dollar business transformation projects. Her contributions have resulted in recognition including the coveted IBM Golden Circle award which recognizes the top 1% of IBM individual contributors. From
- [SONDRA HINES YATES](https://citystartuplabs.com/sondra-hines-yates/) - Sondra Hines Yates is a multitalented educator, communications change agent, journalist, marketing professional, and fitness coach. Sondra has spent the majority of her career guiding students in higher education by providing them with real-world, affordable, hands-on education to transform individuals as well as our community. Her work has also focused on helping organizations improve
- [CSL 2019 REEP DEMO DAY](https://citystartuplabs.com/csl-2019-reep-demo-day/) - City Startup Labs: REEP Demo Day by Aaron Rodgers Dedicated to Ramona Brant - Returning Citizens and Actvists by Aaron Rodgers City Startup Labs: REEP Demo Day by Aaron Rodgers City Startup Labs: REEP Demo Day by Aaron Rodgers City Startup Labs: REEP Demo Day by Aaron Rodgers Henry Rock, Founder and Executive Director of
- [HOPE FOR US ECONOMY: YOUNG BLACK MEN AS ENTREPRENEURS](https://citystartuplabs.com/hope-for-us-economy-young-black-men-as-entrepreneurs/) - The Christian Science Monitor – CSMonitor.com Lawrence Carpenter knew he always had an entrepreneurial spirit, but he was in the wrong business – the business of selling drugs. After his second stint in prison, it became clear to him: “I made mistakes in my life, and I didn’t want to spend the rest
- [FROM BITS TO BITES](https://citystartuplabs.com/from-bits-to-bites/) - Chris Ward went from working in information technology to running a company that’s carved out a niche in the breakfast food market. Watch this StoryNow video as Chris (CSL- Class of 2018-19) shares his palate-pleasing entrepreneurial journey:
- [REGISTRIES REVISITED](https://citystartuplabs.com/registries-revisited/) - Aaron Galloway had a lightbulb moment when thinking about whether he and his fiancée wanted to get three blenders as gifts for their wedding — maybe there could be a more meaningful and enduring way to give during special occasions. Thus InfiniGift was born. Watch this StoryNow video as Aaron (CSL- Class of 2016) gives his take on entrepreneurship:
- [POWER WHEN YOU NEED IT](https://citystartuplabs.com/power-when-you-need-it/) - We’ve all been there; our phone is close to running out of power and not an outlet in sight and you don’t have your charger — what to do? Desmond Wiggan (CSL – Class of 2018-19) has just the answer – BatteryXchange. Watch this StoryNow video as Desmond shares his route to getting us powered up:
- [CSL – A WELLS FARGO GRANT RECIPIENT…](https://citystartuplabs.com/csl-a-wells-fargo-grant-recipient/) - WELLS FARGO ANNOUNCES SIGNIFICANT GRANTS FOCUSED ON ADVANCING ECONOMIC MOBILITY AND RACIAL EQUITY IN CHARLOTTE MAY 05, 2021 Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) will deliver more than $3.2 million in grants to address a range of critical community needs across Charlotte, including advancing economic mobility, improving racial equity, supporting minority-owned small businesses and
- [VENTURING BEYOND THE GATES](https://citystartuplabs.com/venturing-beyond-the-gates/) - Facilitating Successful Reentry with Entrepreneurship Promoting self-employment among people coming home from prison will be challenging; it will require creativity, perseverance and the ability of professionals across fields to break down cultural barriers to build productiverelationships. As the nation struggles to address the social and economic consequences of mass incarceration, entrepreneurship has emerged
- [WATCH THIS TEDX TALK ABOUT CITY STARTUP LABS](https://citystartuplabs.com/watch-this-tedx-talk-about-city-startup-labs/) - “Re-imagine young black men as a new class of entrepreneurs, capable of great things – helping in our country’s economic recovery.”
- [IS ENTREPRENEURSHIP THE ANSWER TO BLACK UNEMPLOYMENT?](https://citystartuplabs.com/is-entrepreneurship-the-answer-to-black-unemployment/) - Editor’s Note: This column by Qcitymetro editor Glenn H Burkins was first published in the Shop Talk section of The Charlotte Observer. Henry Rock, founder and director of City Startup Labs, say more young black males should be groomed to launch and run their own businesses. Click the link below to listen to our
- [ROCKEFELLER GRANT TO CSL](https://citystartuplabs.com/rockefeller-grant-to-csl/) - “The Rockefeller Foundation is happy to support organizations like City Startup Labs that seek to spur entrepreneurship in communities of color, which are so often under-represented in the current entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Claudia Juech, Rockefeller Foundation managing director for strategic research. “We’re excited by the transformative potential of entrepreneurship, and by the opportunity to help
- [BUILDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG ADULTS](https://citystartuplabs.com/building-opportunities-for-young-adults/) - The Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program and Forum for Community Solutions held a roundtable discussion to explore the challenges of young adults in the labor market. The conversation highlighted ideas for expanding meaningful volunteer, on-the-job learning, and entrepreneurship opportunities to help our newest generation of workers gain the experiences and skills they need to be
- [SOME ADVICE ON HOW TO JUMP START ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND JOB CREATION](https://citystartuplabs.com/some-advice-on-how-to-jump-start-entrepreneurship-and-job-creation/) - Wall Street Journal | November 7, 2014 A few weeks ago, I wrote about a surprising paradox I’d just learned about at a conference: Entrepreneurship has never been easier, but entrepreneurship is on the decline. Innovation and entrepreneurship are hot subjects the world over. With the advent of inexpensive digital technologies and cloud-based services, it should be easier than ever to become
- [EMPOWERING YOUNG BLACK MEN](https://citystartuplabs.com/empowering-young-black-men/) - ViewpointJULY 12, 2015 BY HENRY ROCK, Special to the Observer Two years ago this month, Tajze Johnson (pronounced Taj) moved to Charlotte from Rochester, N.Y. Tajze had a keen vision for his future: get his degree in physical therapy and start a business – a personal shopping service for the aged. Little did he know
- [SOLVING A SOCIAL PROBLEM THROUGH ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN CHARLOTTE](https://citystartuplabs.com/solving-a-social-problem-through-entrepreneurship-in-charlotte/) - Hilary BurnsBanking, Finance and Entrepreneurship ReporterCharlotte Business Journal@CBJBurns Henry Rock believes teaching young black men about entrepreneurship could help Charlotte’s social-mobility problem. Rock is the executive director of City Startup Labs, a program focused on helping black male millennials see their potential and learn what it takes to launch a company — or to
- [CITY STARTUP LABS TAPS UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP IN CHARLOTTE](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-taps-university-partnership-in-charlotte/) - BY Sherrell Dorsey | APRIL 28, 2016 Henry Rock is determined to create more young black business owners in the Charlotte community, and ultimately the country. His organization, City Startup Labs, launched in early 2014 and has since graduated nearly 50 young entrepreneurs. Six months of training culminates in a formal pitch competition attended by early-stage seed investors, the local
- [BLACK MEN ON ROAD TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP](https://citystartuplabs.com/black-men-on-road-to-entrepreneurship/) - By WorkingNation Editorial Team | March 15, 2017 YOUNG, BLACK AND GIFTED As more jobs are automated, globalized, or require more education than they once did, a bet that has always been considered very risky—creating your own job by starting a business—is starting to look like a safer path to a secure future. Henry
- [HOW TO EMPOWER YOUNG BLACK ENTREPRENEURS](https://citystartuplabs.com/how-to-empower-young-black-entrepreneurs/) - Caroline Lester | June 16, 2017InnovationHub | Great Minds, Great Conversations | WGBH Radio Credit: HAMZA BUTT / Flickr Creative Commons Back in 1968, President Lyndon Johnson commissioned a report on the state of race in America. The Warren Commission’s ensuing statement: our nation was “moving toward two societies, one black, one white — separate
- [CITY STARTUP LABS RECEIVES KAUFFMAN FOUNDATION GRANT TO AID NEW INITIATIVE](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-receives-kauffman-foundation-grant-to-aid-new-initiative/) - In late June of this year Charlotte-based City Startup Labs (CSL) will be launching an entrepreneurial pilot targeting returning citizens or the formerly incarcerated – ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP). This new effort will be made possible through a grant from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation’s Inclusion Initiative, along with another received from the United Way of Central Carolinas through
- [LET’S REIMAGINE AFRICAN AMERICAN MILLENNIALS AND RETURNING CITIZENS AS A NEW CLASS OF ENTREPRENEURS](https://citystartuplabs.com/lets-reimagine-african-american-millennials-and-returning-citizens-as-a-new-class-of-entrepreneurs/) - THE FOUNDER OF CHARLOTTE’S CITY STARTUP LABS CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION OF AMERICA’S INNOVATORS The Renewal Project, October 12, 2018 Little did I realize that this idea would affect people the way that it has. Of course I had a notion, but five years on, it’s bearing fruit–many of the
- [CITY STARTUP LABS LAUNCHES REEP FOR THE FORMERLY INCARCERATED…](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-launches-reep-for-the-formerly-incarcerated/) - … AND WHAT WE LEARNED Usually, reentry programs focus on meeting the immediate needs of the formerly incarcerated, including employment. Yet for this population, access to any work, much less livable wage-paying jobs can be especially challenging. An overarching goal of the City Startup Labs’ ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) is to demonstrate that entrepreneurship makes
- [CITY STARTUP LABS PROGRAM EVALUATION OF “WHAT WORKS” – CLASS OF 2017](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-program-evaluation-of-what-works-class-of-2017/) - The following is an EXECUTIVE SUMMARY of the City Startup Labs Program Evaluation of “What Works” for the Class of 2017 (from Sept 2017 to March 2018). The entire assessment was prepared by Madison Multicultural Educational Solutions, LLC (led by Jordan Starck – CSL Class of 2014). The purpose of this study is to determine whether the approach/method
- [CSL FOUNDER MAKES CONSCIOUS MAGAZINE’S TOP 22 CONSCIOUS BUSINESS LEADERS OF 2019](https://citystartuplabs.com/csl-founder-makes-conscious-magazines-top-22-conscious-business-leaders-of-2019/) - THESE FORWARD-THINKERS ARE SAYING NO TO PROFIT AT ALL COSTS AND YES TO ADVANCING A NEW BUSINESS-AS-USUAL. Written by: VANESSA CHILDERS Conscious leadership comes in many shapes and sizes that are not necessarily mutually exclusive: the entrepreneur whose business model, from the get-go, is a vehicle for positive global change; the impact investor who funds
- [CITY STARTUP LABS ACQUIRES TECH TRAINING HUB BLKTECHCLT](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-acquires-tech-training-hub-blktechclt/) - [March 16, 2021] Charlotte, North Carolina— City Startup Labs (CSL), hybrid accelerator and incubator, today has announced that it has acquired BLKTECHCLT, an inclusive tech and startup community and consulting firm. “I was excited to hear from Sherrell about this opportunity to acquire BlkTechInteractive and the BLKTECHCLT brand,” said Henry Rock, founder and CEO of City Startup Labs
- [BLACKTECH INTERACTIVE/BLACKTECHCLT – SPRING NEWS](https://citystartuplabs.com/blacktech-interactive-blacktechclt-spring-news/) - City Startup Labs (CSL) made a recent acquisition of the assets of BlackTech Interactive/ BlackTechCLT, a firm started in 2016 in Charlotte by Sherrell Dorsey, Enovia Bedford and Freda Hendley (read announcement). BlackTech Interactive was focused on developing and fostering Black tech talent. Since that time, it established the BlackTech CLT brand and played
- [CITY STARTUP LABS IS A NGAAP CHARLOTTE GRANTEE](https://citystartuplabs.com/city-startup-labs-is-a-ngaap-charlotte-grantee/) - WORKING TO MAKE EQUITY REAL Achieving funding equity for identifiably Black organizations has been elusive. Nevertheless, NGAAP believes we can forge a new path in philanthropy, together. The work will require bold stances, collective action, heightened accountability, and, of course, perseverance. Plainly put, the opportunities are too great and the inequities are too egregious to
- [MICHAEL JORDAN & JORDAN BRAND ANNOUNCE GRANT TO CITY STARTUP LABS](https://citystartuplabs.com/michael-jordan-jordan-brand-announce-grant-to-city-startup-labs/) - At the heart of the Black Community Commitment, announced by Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand in 2020, is a desire to take action where it is needed most. This vision has been supported by a robust partnership strategy, with grants contributing to the areas of social justice, economic empowerment and education and awareness. Today, Jordan Brand is extending
- [FALL NEWSLETTER ~ RUSTLING THE LEAVES](https://citystartuplabs.com/fall-newsletter-rustling-the-leaves/) - This has been a most extraordinary year, without a doubt the most significant in our existence. City Startup Labs came out of the 2020 on a positive note, having been able to service a select group of participants through our ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) and then acquire the assets of Black Tech Interactive/Black Tech Charlotte earlier this
- [Father of Five Says REEP Changed His Life ](https://citystartuplabs.com/father-of-five-says-reep-changed-his-life/) - PRIDE Magazine, January 2022 (Pg. 42) By Sherita Pryer The REEP program exposes participants to business basics and a business-modeling process; helps them develop critical thinking, problem-solving and leadership skills; and helps them develop and launch a skilled-trade based business within designated Opportunity Zones. City Startup Labs (CSL), a nonprofit organization in Charlotte that
- [ELIZABETH THOMAS-HOLLIER](https://citystartuplabs.com/elizabeth-thomas-hollier/) - Business Program ManagerMecklenburg County Elizabeth (Liz) Thomas-Hollier is an accomplished financial leader, business strategist, and entrepreneur. Her insightful, candid perspective is the hallmark of her leadership style, setting apart her collaborative consulting and creative thinking skills. With over 20 years of experience in the public sector, Liz possesses deep financial planning and forecasting,
- [Joel Ford](https://citystartuplabs.com/joel-ford/) - Joel Ford, TRAClient Executive Joel joined the Sentinel team in 2022 as a Client Executive and is responsible for the oversight, management, and implementation of all strategies as they relate to the management and servicing of an account. Originally from Belmont, NC, Joel is a former North Carolina State Senator who represented Mecklenburg
- [Suzanne Fetscher](https://citystartuplabs.com/suzanne-fetscher/) - Suzanne Fetscher is a visionary not-for-profit Executive Director and strategic consultant with more than 25 years of experience in creating innovative and relevant partnerships between artist-in-residency programs and communities. An artist herself, Suzanne aligns her creativity, curiosity, and entrepreneurial spirit to support artists in their ability to succeed and grow audience connections that are meaningful
- [SEED20 | CLASS OF 2020](https://citystartuplabs.com/seed20-class-of-2020/) - CITY STARTUP LABS IS PROUD TO BE A MEMBER OF CHARLOTTE SOCIAL VENTURE PARTNERS’ 2020 CLASS OF SEED20!
- [Veronica Richardson](https://citystartuplabs.com/veronica-richardson/) - Veronica Richardson is one of the members of the City Startup Labs/ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) digital navigators team.
- [BRENT JENKINS](https://citystartuplabs.com/brent-jenkins/) - Brent Jenkins is one of the members of the City Startup Labs/ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) digital navigators team.

## Pages

- [HOME](https://citystartuplabs.com/) - City Startup Labs’ newest initiative: A justice-impacted co-owned and operated social venture to meet the community’s need for reliable, dependable and affordable digital device repair & tech support.LEARN MORERestorative Pathways ProjectRestorative Pathways is redefining workforce development through wholistic skills building and specialized training that leads to economic mobility, wealth building and job satisfaction. LEARN MOREReEntry
- [ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP).2](https://citystartuplabs.com/reentry-entrepreneurship-program-reep-2/) - ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) An entrepreneurship platform for justice-impacted founders Supporting both business readiness and early-stage venture development. Apply to Spring REEP (Operating Businesses) Sponsor REEP (Spring + Fall) Option A: 30–60 sec highlight reel (prior cohorts + Demo Day clips) Option B: Rotating hero image carousel (3–5 strong photos) REEP helps justice-impacted entrepreneurs move
- [Accelerate your Business!](https://citystartuplabs.com/accelerate-your-business/) - Accelerate your Business!
- [CONTACT US](https://citystartuplabs.com/contact/) - CONTACT US Phone(704) 807-3000 Physical AddressCo-Lab301 E. 9th StreetCharlotte, NC 28202
- [MEDIA](https://citystartuplabs.com/media/) - MEDIA ARTICLES & EDITORIALS RADIO & PODCASTSThe Francene Marie Show | Beasley Media Group (Charlotte) – August 5-6, 2017 Great Minds, Great Conversations | How To Empower Young Black Entrepreneurs – Innovation Hub | WGBH Radio – June 16, 2017 AWARDSTop 22 Conscious Company Business Leaders – 2019 Charlotte Crowns of Enterprise – Diversity Advocate of the Year – 2017 Purpose Prize Fellow –
- [Restorative Pathways Program Overview](https://citystartuplabs.com/restorative-pathways-program-overview/) - Restorative Pathways Program Overview Welcome to Restorative Pathways Transforming Lives, One Step at a Time Restorative Pathways (RP) is more than a workforce development program—it’s a journey designed to empower justice-impacted individuals to achieve economic mobility and personal growth. Our comprehensive approach equips participants with the tools to thrive in high-demand industries, combining real-world education
- [BOARD](https://citystartuplabs.com/board/) - city startup labs BOARD MEET THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Samuel Collins Dynamic CEO with 15+ years of experience directing the daily operations, long-term strategic growth, and resource development initiatives of service organizations.Highly effective at accomplishing social impact goals that benefit the community by developing productive relationships; well-respected Learn more… E. Alan Crawford II Leader, Advocate, Manufacturing
- [RESTORATIVE PATHWAYS](https://citystartuplabs.com/restorative-pathways/) - Restorative Pathways Transitioning from reentry to a new career Restorative Pathways was launched in 2021 in collaboration with our client Atrium Health. Atrium’s commitment to becoming a fair-chance employer led to our collaboration in designing, developing, and delivering an initiative that recruits, trains, onboards, and supports justice-impacted individuals in building new careers in healthcare. Our
- [CSL TEAM](https://citystartuplabs.com/csl-team/) - city startup labs TEAM MEET THE TEAM Henry Rock Founder and Executive Director Henry Rock has well over two decades of experience in media sales, advertising and marketing, working on national brands in Chicago, New York and Philadelphia for Johnson Publishing, the National Black Network, Black Media Inc. and other Black Media companies. Learn more… MEGAN
- [LEGACY PROGRAMS](https://citystartuplabs.com/legacy-programs/) - LEGACY PROGRAMS Advancing Entrepreneurship CSL maintains a central focus on advancing Black entrepreneurship by helping to close the racial gap of business ownership in America. Our goal is to increase economic mobility and Black wealth building that business ownership affords. One of the best ways to build wealth in the United States is to own
- [DONATE](https://citystartuplabs.com/donate/) - Join us in creating a new class of entrepreneurs and innovators! Join us in creating a new class of entrepreneurs and innovators! City Startup Labs is dedicated to cultivating a new generation of entrepreneurs and innovators, focusing on both African American millennials and justice-impacted or formerly incarcerated individuals. Your contribution is truly an investment in
- [ABOUT](https://citystartuplabs.com/about/) - ABOUT CITY STARTUP LABS City Startup Labs is addressing social economic mobility through leading-edge skills training, hands-on instruction, support and mentorship, career building and community engagement for a new class of justice-impacted or formerly incarcerated entrepreneurs, value-added employees and Black tech founders. City Startup Labs (CSL) grew out of an idea to do doing something
- [REEP](https://citystartuplabs.com/reep/) - ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) CONCEPT Inspired by the 2014 Raj Chetty study and the subsequent 2017 Leading on Opportunity report, City Startup Labs began to rethink traditional workforce development of returning citizens. We wanted to build entrepreneurial and technical capabilities and capacity that is deeply connected with community. We imagine that this can scale into
- [THE JOURNAL](https://citystartuplabs.com/the-journal/) - THE JOURNAL
- [ReConnex: Empowering Justice-Impacted Entrepreneurs](https://citystartuplabs.com/reconnex-2/) - ReConnex by City Startup Labs empowers justice-impacted individuals with tech skills and co-ownership in a digital device repair business in Charlotte, NC.
- [LEARN/BUILD/DEPLOY](https://citystartuplabs.com/learn-build-deploy/) - LEARN/BUILD/deploy MODEL: LEARN/BUILD/deploy (LBD) The LBD Model marries core competencies, digital-tech service skills and entrepreneurial training for the purposes of preparing REEP participants to create business and/or become a valued-added employee. We call this 21st Century workforce development. LBD aligns with the 2021 McKinsey Study “Defining the Skills Citizens Will Need In the Future World
- [HISTORY](https://citystartuplabs.com/history/) - city startup labs history CSL HISTORY City Startup Labs (CSL) grew out of a need to do something meaningful and of real value to address a perceived lack of entrepreneurial activity, specifically among young Black men in urban America. We wanted to begin to move them off of the sidelines and into the startup game,
- [Restorative Pathways Interest Form](https://citystartuplabs.com/restorative-pathways-interest-form/) - Restorative Pathways interest form
- [10 Years of Impact](https://citystartuplabs.com/10-years-of-impact/) - 10 Years of Impact
- [SPONSORS & PARTNERS](https://citystartuplabs.com/sponsors-partners/) - SPONSORS & PARTNERS SINCE CITY STARTUP LABS’ BEGINNINGS, IT HAS HAD RECEIVED GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM AN ARRAY OF SPONSORS AND PARTNERS. Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More Learn More
- [PRIVACY POLICY](https://citystartuplabs.com/privacy-policy/) - PRIVACY POLICY AND STATEMENT Effective Date: August 20, 2024 1. Acknowledgement and Acceptance of Terms City Startup Labs, Inc. (CSL) is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Statement sets forth our current privacy practices with regard to the information we collect when you or your computer interact with our website. By accessing any City Startup Labs, Inc. (CSL) website, you acknowledge
- [PARTNER WITH US](https://citystartuplabs.com/partner-with-us/) - PARTNER WITH US BUILDING ENTREPRENEURIAL CAPACITY AND TALENT AMONG RETURNING CITIZENS AND AFRICAN AMERICAN MILLENNIALS Come partner with us as a CSL volunteer! City Startup Labs (CSL) through our ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) and Restorative Pathways initiatives works with formerly incarcerated persons and the justice-impacted during their transition as returning citizens. We are building three
- [Newsletter](https://citystartuplabs.com/newsletter/) - [newsletter]
- [THEORY OF CHANGE](https://citystartuplabs.com/theory-of-change/) - THEORY OF CHANGE CONNECTING THE DOTS • A THEORY OF CHANGE
- [Events](https://citystartuplabs.com/events/) - Events join us, in the Creation of A NEW CLASS OF ENTREPRENEURS AND INNOVATORS Register today! Save the Date
- [Subscribe to our Mailing List](https://citystartuplabs.com/subscribe/) - subscribe to our mailing list Subscribe Sign up with your email address to receive news and updates. First name Last name Email address Subscribe Thank you for subscribing!
- [REEP CLASS OF 2022-23](https://citystartuplabs.com/class-of-2022-23/) - REEP CLASS OF 2022-23 Alia Dixon INSERT TEXT VIEW PITCH Taeisha Legardy INSERT TEXT VIEW PITCH Donnie Moore INSERT TEXT VIEW PITCH Lawrence Stephens INSERT TEXT VIEW PITCH Dominique Funderburk INSERT TEXT VIEW PITCH TITLE INSERT TEXT VIEW PITCH Stan Potts INSERT TEXT VIEW PITCH Scott Sumter INSERT TEXT VIEW PITCH Shaheedah Jackson INSERT TEXT
- [CLASS OF 2018-19](https://citystartuplabs.com/class-of-2018-19/) - CLASS OF 2018-19 Sole Food Watch Elizabeth's Demo Day pitch about her venture Sole Food. VIEW PITCH CLASS OF 2018-19 Silent Disco Fun Watch Miles’ Demo Day pitch about his venture Silent Disco Fun. VIEW PITCH Amplify Charlotte Watch Christine’s Demo Day pitch about her venture Amplify Charlotte. VIEW PITCH GiftBox Shop Watch Ashley's Demo
- [CLASS OF 2017-18](https://citystartuplabs.com/class-of-2017/) - CLASS OF 2017-18 XchangePost Unfortunately, John wasn't able to pitch on Demo Day, but you can learn more about his venture. VIEW PITCH Loyo Watch Leland's Demo Day pitch about his venture Loyo. VIEW PITCH PamperUs Mobile Massage Lounge Watch Brandi's Demo Day pitch about her prize-winning venture PamperUs Mobile Massage Lounge VIEW PITCH Wireguard
- [CLASS OF 2016](https://citystartuplabs.com/class-of-2016/) - CLASS OF 2016 Market Madness | 2016 winning venture Market Madness is a fun and engaging platform that blends the stock market and fantasy sports to help people learn to invest. Contact Market Madness on Twitter and Instagram: @madness_market | @mymarket_madness VIEW PITCH Beautictionary | 2016 winning venture Beautictionary is a web-based service making the
- [CLASS OF 2015](https://citystartuplabs.com/class-of-2015/) - CLASS OF 2015 CREATING A NEW CLASS OF ENTREPRENEURS AND INNOVATORSCLASS OF 2015 Eat.Work.Play 24|7 | 2015 winning venture Eat.Work.Play 24|7 uses connections on LinkedIn to assist with bridging professionals to their residential areas, local businesses and events to help improve work-life balance. The purpose is to help professionals find connections and communicate beyond e-mail
- [CLASS OF 2014](https://citystartuplabs.com/class-of-2014/) - CLASS OF 2014 CREATING A NEW CLASS OF ENTREPRENEURS AND INNOVATORSCLASS OF 2014 Jarron H. Thomas Winner of the BizPlan Pitch & Competition Yccentric Outcasts | 4th Place in the BizPlan Pitch & Competition Constructed of bio-composites of wood and bamboo, this eyewear is fully adjustable, durable, and made with the end in mind. YO

## My Templates

- [Elementor Footer #8620](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=elementor-footer-8620) - Content area
- [Post 2025](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=post-2025) - HOME ABOUT HISTORY TEN YEARS OF IMPACT THEORY OF CHANGE TEAM BOARD PARTNER WITH US THE JOURNAL MEDIA LEGACY PROGRAMS CLASS OF 2018-19 CLASS OF 2017-18 CLASS OF 2016 CLASS OF 2015 CLASS OF 2014 REEP RECONNEX LEARN/BUILD/DEPLOY RESTORATIVE PATHWAYS PROGRAM OVERVIEW VIDEOS CONTACT US HOME ABOUT HISTORY TEN YEARS OF IMPACT THEORY OF CHANGE
- [Universal Post Template](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=universal-post-template) - HOME ABOUT HISTORY TEN YEARS OF IMPACT THEORY OF CHANGE TEAM BOARD PARTNER WITH US THE JOURNAL MEDIA LEGACY PROGRAMS CLASS OF 2018-19 CLASS OF 2017-18 CLASS OF 2016 CLASS OF 2015 CLASS OF 2014 REEP RECONNEX LEARN/BUILD/DEPLOY RESTORATIVE PATHWAYS PROGRAM OVERVIEW VIDEOS CONTACT US HOME ABOUT HISTORY TEN YEARS OF IMPACT THEORY OF CHANGE
- [Toastmasters 9.16.25](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=toastmasters-9-16-25) - Content area
- [white background](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=white-background) - Content area
- [Default Kit](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=default-kit)
- [Elementor Header not home](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=elementor-header-2048) - Content area
- [Header Intro](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=header-intro-2) - WHAT WE’RE UP TO
- [header with particles](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=header-with-particles) - WHAT WE’RE UP TO
- [Posts](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=posts-2) - FALL NEWSLETTER ~ RUSTLING THE LEAVES This has been a most extraordinary year, without a doubt the most significant in our existence. City Startup Labs came out of the 2020 on Read More » October 28, 2021 BLACKTECH INTERACTIVE/BLACKTECHCLT – SPRING NEWS City Startup Labs (CSL) made a recent acquisition of the assets of BlackTech
- [Header Intro](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=header-intro) - OUR PROCESS City Startup Labs’ aspiring entrepreneurs begin with foundational work, then prepare for the rigorous endeavor they’re undertaking, learn startup fundamentals, and finally craft and test a viable business model. They do so by sequencing through the following modules:
- [Header](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=header) - ENTREPRENEURSHIP
- [posts](https://citystartuplabs.com/?elementor_library=posts) - REEP 2022/23 The latest cohort of City Startup Labs’ ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) just recently completed two legs of their entrepreneurial journey, which started back in late Read More » May 21, 2023 Pushing Through Loss: Tiffany White shares her story | REEP REEP participant Tiffany White speaks about her experience of losing her son

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/uncategorized/)
- [Entrepreneurship](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/entrepreneurship/) - Entrepreneurship training, education, small business
- [Funders & Partners](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/funders-partners/)
- [BlkTechCLT](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/entrepreneurship/blktechclt/)
- [ReEntry Entrepreneurship Program (REEP)](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/entrepreneurship/reentry-entrepreneurship-program-reep/)
- [Research & Analysis](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/research-analysis/) - Studies on entrepreneurship, criminal justice, re-entry programs, micro-lending, micro-enterprise
- [History](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/history/) - Organizational History
- [Entrepreneur](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/entrepreneurship/entrepreneur/)
- [Board](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/board/)
- [CSL Team](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/csl-team/)
- [MEDIA](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/media/)
- [Digital Inclusion](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/digital-inclusion/)
- [Incubators](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/incubators/)
- [Programs](https://citystartuplabs.com/category/programs/)

## Tags

- [Entrepreneurship](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/entrepreneurship/)
- [Jordan Brands](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/jordan-brands/)
- [ Michael Jordan](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/michael-jordan/)
- [African American](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/african-american/)
- [ Entrepreneur](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/entrepreneur/)
- [ Minority Entrepreneurship](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/minority-entrepreneurship/)
- [ Startups](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/startups/)
- [ formerly incarcerated persons](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/formerly-incarcerated-persons/)
- [ job creation](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/job-creation/)
- [ reentry entrepreneurship](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/reentry-entrepreneurship/)
- [ returning citizens](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/returning-citizens/)
- [ Workforce Development](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/workforce-development/)
- [Research & Analysis](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/research-analysis/)
- [Charlotte](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/charlotte/)
- [Minority Entrepreneurship](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/minority-entrepreneurship-2/)
- [Black male entrepreneurs](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/black-male-entrepreneurs/)
- [Startups](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/startups-2/)
- [Inner-City](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/inner-city/)
- [Entrepreneur](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/entrepreneur-2/)
- [Aspen](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/aspen/)
- [New Class of Entrepreneurs](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/new-class-of-entrepreneurs/)
- [Workforce Development](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/workforce-development-2/)
- [Inner-City Small Business](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/inner-city-small-business/)
- [Rockefeller Foundation](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/rockefeller-foundation/)
- [TED](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/ted/)
- [Small Business](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/small-business/)
- [Prisoner Re-entry](https://citystartuplabs.com/tag/prisoner-re-entry/)